Senate Agriculture Committee Approves Key Nutrition Program Funding

CHICAGO – The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics praises the Senate Agriculture Committee for approving legislation that will fund key nutrition programs that empower Americans with the knowledge to make healthful food choices.

“The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Education (SNAP-Ed) and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) funded in the Farm Bill and provided in community settings have been shown to improve healthful eating behaviors to help reduce chronic disease,” said registered dietitian and Academy President Sylvia A. Escott-Stump.

“In addition, the Academy commends efforts to maintain the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program for students to help develop life-long healthful eating habits,” Escott-Stump said.

The Academy thanks Sens. Debbie Stabenow (Mich.) and Pat Roberts (Kan.) for their bipartisan leadership in developing a draft bill that will help improve the health of Americans through good nutrition.

“We realize we are in tough economic times, but the Academy urges the committee not to cut access for many Americans who rely on SNAP to feed their families,” Escott-Stump said. “Often overlooked is the fact that SNAP reduced the poverty rate by nearly 8 percent in 2009, a significant factor for families and communities.”

SNAP also helps stimulate the local economy at a time when it is most needed. For every $5 in new SNAP benefits $9.20 is generated in total economic activity.

“It is the position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that systematic and sustained action is needed to achieve food and nutrition security for all in the United States. Therefore, the Academy will continue to work with these Congressional leaders to make sure all Americans have access to healthy and safe foods. We will also work to make sure there is funding for nutrition research in the bill, so future decisions are made based on evidence, with solid science to back them up,” Escott-Stump said.

The Academy will continue its efforts with other key partners in the public health, anti-hunger and agriculture communities to help assure passage of an effective Farm Bill.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association) is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving the nation’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at www.eatright.org.